Caroline Hedwall: The Veteran Leader of Team Europe at the Solheim Cup
Caroline Hedwall may not be an active member of the LPGA Tour at the moment, but she is definitely a force to be reckoned with on the golf course. As the only player on either side who isn’t currently playing on the LPGA Tour, she brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the European team at the Solheim Cup.
Hedwall made history in 2013 when she became the first player in Solheim Cup history to win every match, earning all five points in one contest. It was a remarkable achievement, and it happened on American soil, when Europe won the Solheim Cup for the first time in the United States. This was not the only time Hedwall played a crucial role in Europe’s victory. In 2011, at Killeen Castle in Ireland, she was a captain’s pick and helped Europe secure another win.
At the age of 34, Hedwall has already achieved a lot in her career. She has seven career LET victories and an impressive 8-6-1 Solheim Cup record. Her extensive match-play experience and success make her a respected and influential figure on Team Europe. During practice days, her teammates look to her for guidance, and the younger players listen attentively whenever she has something to say.
Hedwall’s genuine enthusiasm and appreciation for being part of the team is evident in her pre-tournament press conference. She considers it an honor to represent Europe and is excited for the competition to begin. Her selection as a captain’s pick was based not only on her impressive track record but also on her unwavering determination and ability to perform under pressure.
One might be surprised to learn that Hedwall doesn’t play an active LPGA Tour schedule currently. Instead, she has chosen to focus on the LET since 2020. Her victory at last year’s Costa del Sol Open de España in Andalucia, Spain, where this year’s Solheim Cup is held, was likely a contributing factor in her selection.
Returning to the same area where she tasted victory brings back fond memories for Hedwall. She feels comfortable and confident on the course and appreciates the opportunity to compete in such a prestigious event.
Hedwall’s match-play prowess extends beyond the Solheim Cup. In her recent appearance at the Hanwha LIFEPLUS International Crown at TPC Harding Park, she went 3-1, further solidifying her reputation as a formidable match-play competitor. Her journey to the Solheim Cup began when she qualified for the Junior Solheim Cup at the age of 17, and she considers it a stepping stone towards her ultimate goal of playing in the prestigious tournament.
As a veteran player, Hedwall understands the importance of serving as a role model for the junior members of the team. She recognizes that she is now the player they look up to and the leader her rookie teammates can rely on when the pressure intensifies.
Team Europe’s strength lies not only in Hedwall’s leadership but also in the outstanding performances of her fellow European players this season. With players like Maja Stark, Linn Grant, Celine Boutier, and Charley Hull in top form, the team is confident and believes they have what it takes to win the Solheim Cup.
Caroline Hedwall’s presence on the European team at the Solheim Cup is a testament to her skill, experience, and leadership. Her remarkable performances in past Solheim Cups and her continued success on the golf course make her an invaluable asset to the team. As she leads and inspires her teammates, all eyes will be on Hedwall as she strives to contribute to another European victory in this prestigious tournament.